Almost all Canadian workers experience some burnout: survey

A recent survey from staffing firm Accountemps found that nearly all senior managers in Canada (96 per cent) believe their team members are experiencing some degree of burnout.

In a separate survey, 95 per cent of Canadian workers said they are at least somewhat burned out.

According to managers, the greatest burnout factors include unmanageable workload, constant interruptions, career stagnation, dated technology and toxic culture.

According to workers, the greatest burnout factors are constant interruptions, unmanageable workload, career stagnation, toxic culture and dated technology.

“Burnout can be a costly symptom of a workplace culture that doesn’t prioritize employee well-being; it’s detrimental to both the health of the individual and the business itself,” said Koula Vasilopoulos, district president for Accountemps, in a news release.

“It’s in an organization’s best interest to proactively help their teams manage stress levels and prevent burnout. Frequent check-ins with staff to gauge workloads, flexibility with close deadlines and leading by example in encouraging staff to disengage from work after hours can help managers set the foundation for a more productive, positive and committed workforce.

“While there are things workers can do to combat stress throughout the day, including energizing walks with colleagues or simple desk-side stretches, employees need to speak with their supervisor if they feel mounting responsibilities have become overwhelming or unmanageable.”

Senior managers were asked to report the level of burnout among employees on a scale of one (not at all burned out) to 10 (completely burned out), and the average was 5.7. One in five respondents rated their team’s burnout level eight or higher. Workers cited an average burnout level of 5.6, with 22 per cent of respondents falling within the eight to 10 range, said the report.